In an era where sustainability and ethical practices are more than just buzzwords, Urban Natural Furniture stands out as a beacon of innovation and integrity. Founded in 2014 by Ali Qari, the brand has carved a niche for itself by offering eco-chic furniture that harmonizes craftsmanship with environmental consciousness.
Ali Qari's vision for Urban Natural was clear from the start—to create a marketplace centered around American-made craftsmanship. "The craftsperson is the backbone of our business, and without them, nothing would be possible," Qari explains.
This commitment to high-quality furniture free from harmful chemicals underscores the brand’s dedication to safety—not just for those who build the pieces but also for the families who welcome them into their homes.
"The craftsperson is the backbone of our business, and without them, nothing would be possible."
Even if they are a small business, they do not sacrifice ethics for style. "We are available to answer any questions and guide you through the right purchase for your home and the people you care about," says Qari, emphasizing the importance of ethical production.
The brand stands out in the crowded furniture industry by prioritizing the health of its customers and the environment. "We conduct extensive research to source the high-quality furniture you want, made with the safe, organic materials you deserve," says Qari.
Setting a Standard for Ethical and Sustainable Furniture
Urban Natural's commitment to ethical practices is reflected in the stringent criteria set for their Workshop Partners.
To collaborate with Urban Natural, partners must meet at least three of five core values: ethically sourced materials, handcrafted production, organic components, sustainable practices, and being made in the USA. This meticulous selection process guarantees that every piece of furniture not only looks good but also aligns with the brand's ethical standards.
For instance, one of their workshop partners, Copeland, powers its entire operation with solar panels. Cisco Home’s Inside Green line offers 100% organic upholstery, eliminating non-biodegradable synthetic materials.
Another partner, Gus Modern, creates cushion inserts from recycled plastic bottles, and Naturepedic produces organic mattresses with zippable covers for easy layer exchanges, reducing returns and waste. This translates to fewer mistakes when purchasing a mattress, therefore fewer returns and a smaller carbon footprint.
Ali Qari believes that sustainability extends beyond just sourcing materials responsibly. "When we talk about 'sustainable furniture,' we're considering the entire product lifecycle—from production to recycling and reuse," he says. Urban Natural's packaging practices reflect this philosophy, using reusable blanket-wrapped packaging instead of disposable materials like cardboard and plastic wrap.
"When we talk about 'sustainable furniture,' we're considering the entire product lifecycle—from production to recycling and reuse.''
They also plan to launch a program that refurbishes, resells, or donates "Pre-Loved" furniture, further minimizing waste and contributing to local communities. This initiative is part of the brand's broader mission to ensure that everyone can enjoy a healthy home furnished with high-quality, durable materials.
Made in the USA: A Local Approach with Global Impact
While most Urban Natural materials are sourced in the USA, some exceptional resources are obtained internationally to meet their high standards. Leathers from Italy and Sweden and organic linen fabrics from Belgium are incorporated into their designs, ensuring that quality is never compromised.
With over 90% of its catalog made in the USA, Urban Natural allows for custom options, enabling customers to work directly with local craftsmen to create beautiful furniture pieces. This approach not only supports local artisans but also ensures that each piece is tailored to the customer's unique requirements, all while providing great customer service.
"We believe everyone deserves a healthy home. We exist to connect our community with high-quality home furnishings and mattresses made from the healthiest and most durable materials available," recalls Qari.
Partnering with workshops across the USA, Urban Natural curates items that are free from harmful chemicals and produced sustainably and responsibly by fairly compensated craftsmen.
''We believe everyone deserves a healthy home. We exist to connect our community with high-quality home furnishings and mattresses made from the healthiest and most durable materials available.''
The Future of Ethical Furniture
When asked about their future, Al Qari responds: "We are working every day to grow our business and to continue sourcing high-quality furniture that is promised to be free from harmful chemicals for our customers.'' The brand aims to maintain its commitment to sustainability and high-quality products while expanding its footprint in the market.
Urban Natural is more than just a brand; it's part of a movement toward a more sustainable, ethical, and beautiful world. By choosing this brand, you're not just buying furniture—you're investing in a future where quality and conscience coexist.